2362: The Medal Collector’s Surrender

"She was the youngest, arriving in the wake of two elder siblings and a twin brother whose delicate health demanded the family’s entire reservoir of attention. In that crowded house, she became the "silent twin" not ignored, perhaps, but constantly hemmed in by a fence of "don’ts" and "can’ts." While others were encouraged, she was instructed; while others were praised, she was warned of her own perceived incapacities.

Living in an era before Google, she had no search engine to find an alternative reality. She simply waited for the "second half" of her life, hoping for a lavish turn of fate (simulated the best days ahead). And on the surface, it arrived: marriage, children, a home, a car, a career. Yet, the script remained the same. From her initial days of marriage, she began collecting a different kind of "medal" sharp, painful certificates of failure issued by her in-laws and partner. "You aren't good at this; you're failing at that."

At the office, colleagues urged her to fight back, to find her voice, but the years of being told she was "incapable" had reached her marrow. She earned a living and built a professional reputation, but the weight of her mistakes born from a fractured self-confidence finally became too heavy.

Exhausted by the "unexpected medals" of criticism and having knocked on the doors of counselors who could not reach the depth of her hurt, she has walked away. Today, she resides in an Ashram. She has traded the noise of family for the silence of the divine. She is no longer looking for validation from people; she is waiting with newfound patience to see what the Supreme Authority has in store for her second act."  - A tale of a girl. 

2361: A Lesson in Micro-Motivation

I want to take a moment to appreciate the incredible team behind Indian Idol. From the powerhouse singers and esteemed judges to the flawless band and the relentless "backstage warriors" who work behind the scenes you all create magic.

I have been a loyal fan for almost every season, but the last two have been particularly special for me. Having more time at home, I’ve been able to enjoy the show side-by-side with my daughter, making it a cherished family ritual.

Last season, I noticed a simple "plus sign" marked on the floor to show the singers where to stand. But this season, my "four eyes" caught a brilliant change: that tiny mark has been replaced by a shining star.

It moved me deeply. Whether it was the insight of a psychologist or a visionary producer, someone recognized that these performers aren't just contestants they are already stars. To stand on a star while you sing is a superb, silent boost of confidence. It proves that this team cares about the tiniest details of creativity and morale. My salute to the person or team who championed this small yet significant change. You don't just put on a great show; you build great spirits.

2360: Co-Teaching with Tech-Vibes

Being invited to co-teach at SCMHRD (December 2025-January 2026), one of the nation’s topmost MBA institutions, is truly an honor. The journey from receiving the initial invitation to planning, execution, and final delivery has been an incredible professional milestone.

Addressing hundreds of students simultaneously brought a unique energy to the room. As a facilitator, the real challenge and the most rewarding part was tailoring technical concepts to their specific niche domains. Whether it was Marketing, HR, or Finance, we went beyond theory; it was possible to walk the entire cohort through hands-on experiences involving a suite of AI tools, diverse data sources, rigorous validations, and dynamic visualizations.

Our deep-dive sessions covered the essentials of data intelligence:

• Data Preparation & Processing

• Regression, Autocorrelation, and Causation

• Association & Clustering techniques

• Bridging the gap between Data Analysis and Business Analysis

My Key Takeaways:

• Continuous Growth: The process was a cycle of learning, relearning, and even "delearning" to stay ahead.

• Domain Adaptation: Learning how tech is applied uniquely to HR, Finance, and Marketing was a personal challenge that I thoroughly enjoyed.

• Young Energy: Immersing myself in those "young vibes" was truly rejuvenating.

An awesome experience indeed! My sincere thanks to the authorities at this prestigious institution and the dedicated admin team for their consistent help and support throughout.

#SCMHRD #AI #DataAnalytics #BusinessIntelligence #CoTeaching #HigherEducation #MBA #HandsOnLearning #DigitalTransformation #YoungVibes

परिक्रमा

 मुख्यतः गेली दोन वर्षे आणि त्या आधीची काही अशी मिळून अनेक वर्ष मी एका प्रश्नाचे उत्तर आतुरतेने शोधतं होते. मी अनेक मैत्रिणींना विचारले, नातेवाईक झाले, वयाने आणि मानाने मोठ्या असलेल्या व्यक्ती झाल्या, विविध स्तरावरच्या लोकांशी चर्चा केली, समुपदेशकांना विचारले, पैसे देऊन उत्तर मिळवण्याचा अथक प्रयत्न केला आणि आज अचानक ते हवं असलेलं उत्तर मला मिळालं. मला जसे कि कोणी तरी कानात येऊन सांगितले किंवा मला तसा भास झाला असं म्हणायला हरकत नाही. मी एक फक्त गृहिणी म्ह्णून जगले असते तर मला खूप खूप वेळ माझ्या मुलांसोबत मिळाला असता, अगणित आठवणी जमा झाल्या असत्या. आता मला काहीच आठवणींनी इतके दुःख होते, आता मुलं लांब गेली आहेत त्यामुळे जर जास्त आठवणी साठल्या असत्या तर जास्त प्रमाणात दुःख झाले असते त्यांच्या नसण्याचे.  शिवाय अगदी खारीचा वाटा असे मी कधीतरी त्यांना पैसे पाठवू शकते ते कदाचित पाठवता आले नसते. मला माझं विल करता आलं नसतं कारण माझ्या नावावर असं काहीच नसतं. हि दिलेली जी पुंजी आहे ती तशीच राहून फक्त इंटरेस्ट वर जर मला शेवट पर्यंत निभावता आलं तर हि एक भेट असू शकेल मुलांसाठी. माझा मूळ स्वभाव जाणून, किंवा भविष्यात काय लिहिलंय माझ्या स्क्रिप्ट मधे हे ठाऊक असल्यामुळे माझ्या भावनिक गुंतवणुकीला सांभाळण्यासाठी नोकरीची वाट दाखवली गेली, त्या मार्गावर मला नेलं आणि चालवलं देखील. कदाचित ह्या मुळे मुलं थोडीशी धीट झाली असतील, विद्यार्थ्यांना काही चांगलं ऐकायला मिळालं असेल, अनेक सहकाऱ्यांना काही समजलं / उमगलं असेल, मी तर निश्चितच एक वेगळी व्यक्ती म्हणून घडले आणि घडते आहे अजून देखील. जे होतं ते चांगल्यासाठीच हे माझ्या गुरु असंख्य वेळा सांगत होत्या, ते पटत पण होतं, मागे जाऊ शकत नाही हे उमगत पण होतं, आज महत्वाचा आहे हे जाणवलं होतं पण तरी भूतकाळातचं फेरफटका मारला जायचा. आता हे थांबेल हे निश्चित. असो. जे आहे ते असं आहे, मी अशी आहे, माझ्या हातून असं घडलं आणि मागे कोणीच जाऊ शकलं नाही, शकणार नाही, त्या पेक्षा इतकं सगळं सुंदर आहे आजूबाजूला ते बघू या, अनुभवुया  आणि नतमस्तक होऊन त्याने आखलेल्या मार्गावर त्याच्यासोबत जाऊ या. पुढील परिक्रमा निश्चितच सर्वोत्तम आहे हे नक्की. 

2359: The Energetic World of Dr Rucha

To me, Prof. Dr Rucha Killedar is more than just a person; she is a vibrant phenomenon. Having known her since her very first breath, watching her journey from our roots in Nagpur to becoming a leading Physiotherapy doctor in Pune fills me with immense pride.

Rucha carries that classic Nagpur warmth, a hospitality that makes you feel instantly at home. When we met at the BVU Pune campus, she welcomed me with a motherly touch that was both protective and deeply caring. She doesn’t just ask how you are; she takes charge of your well-being with a genuine, nurturing spirit.

As a Physio, her fitness is tremendous. She doesn’t just treat patients; she lives the discipline she preaches. There is a "youngness" in her spirit and energy that goes beyond everything else she has a zest for life that is truly infectious.

From arranging a golf cart to save me the walk across campus, to connecting me with the best medical care and narrating my history to doctors herself, Rucha is a rare breed. She is a powerhouse of energy, a great motivator, and a thoughtful host who handles everything with "superb" efficiency.

Rucha, you are a rare blend of focus, fitness, and a heart of gold. I am so incredibly proud of the woman and professional you have become. You are, quite simply, one of a kind.

2358: Beyond the Workshop

While the "AI for Research" session was the core of my visit to the institute, the true story lies in the tireless efforts of Prof. Dr Arti Gachake.

From our very first conversation, she worked relentlessly to build the core team and championed the initiative with the authorities to ensure every door was opened. Following the wonderful traditions of her institute, she managed the logistics with absolute grace from securing the advance to the final details. Her professionalism was matched only by her kindness; when I shared the screenshot of my cab fare, the reimbursement was instant, though she had been ready to take care of everything well in advance.

But it was the personal touches that spoke volumes:

• The "Sky is the Limit" Certificate: she presented me with a stunning Certificate of Appreciation designed with clouds in the background a beautiful metaphor she chose to signal that this journey has no bounds.

• Thoughtful Gifts: A delicate snowflake-shaped scented candle and a tiny tree of flowers gifts that brought a sense of calm and beauty to the day.

• The "First of its Kind" Tour: She personally introduced me to her entire team and gave me a tour of their impressive campus, including their state-of-the-art Robotic Dental Setup a true "Wow" moment for a technology enthusiast like me!

• Warmth and Connection: From the formal introduction and meeting with the Principal to the snacks and coffee she arranged for everyone after the session, every minute was perfectly orchestrated.

Dr Arti, your dedication is inspiring. You didn't just host a guest; you honored a shared vision for innovation. Thank you for the hospitality, the conversations, and for reminding me that when we work with such passion, the sky really is the limit.

#AIWorkshop #Hospitality #Innovation #RoboticsInDentistry #SkyIsTheLimit #Gratitude

2357: Bridging AI and Dentistry at Bharati Vidyapeeth

We have known each other for ages, constantly exchanging research and patent ideas across the miles. After many conversations, we finally decided to bring those ideas to life at the institution. While our formal planning started in June 2025, navigating dates and schedules until December the "D-Day" finally arrived on 27th January 2026 at Bharati Vidyapeeth Dental College, Pune.

The session, "AI for Research," brought together a vibrant group of Post-Graduate students, PhD scholars, and faculty members. It was a truly fulfilling experience to introduce modern technology to these dental experts.

Together, we walked through the smart process of research:

• Specialized AI Tools: Exploring platforms designed specifically for the rigorous needs of researchers.

• The Smart Process: Breaking down the journey from ideation to publication.

• Ethics & Strategy: Discussing the crucial "Do’s and Don’ts" of the AI-driven academic world.

Engagement & Curiosities: The interaction was incredibly high-energy. Participants asked deep, practical questions regarding the best practices to follow while working on smart research. There was also a significant discussion on how to navigate the complex world of publishing specifically, which journals are truly termed as "International" and how to avoid predatory outlets.

I was truly humbled by the response. After the session, the room was filled with gratitude; many participants thanked me in person, and the appreciation continued long after through a flood of DMs and emails. Thanks to each and every one of you!

Key Outcomes & Impact:

• Demystifying AI: We shifted the perspective of AI from a "threat" to a "power tool" for academic excellence.

• Publication Literacy: Scholars left with a clearer roadmap on identifying high-impact international journals.

• Efficiency Gains: Faculty members noted that these tools could potentially reduce literature review time by 40-50%, allowing more time for clinical work.

Special Gratitude & Acknowledgments: A heartfelt special thanks to Prof. Dr. Arti Gachake and her dedicated team for the seamless coordination and for being the driving force behind this collaboration.

My sincere thanks to the Respected Principal, Prof. Dr. Kshirsagar, for his vision and support in hosting this session. Finally, a big thank you to all the enthusiastic participants from Bharati Dental, Pune—your energy made this day possible.

Highlights:

• The Wait: From June 2025 to January 2026—patience made the event even sweeter.

• The Audience: A 360-degree mix of students and senior faculty.

• The Energy: The "amazing expressions" and the wave of follow-up DMs remain the best feedback a speaker can receive.

2356: Dust at rest

Yesterday was Sunday, but today Monday; brought the real surprise. After seven months of constant, relentless construction noise from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., we woke up to a gift we didn't know we were receiving: absolute, pin-drop silence.

The experience was overwhelming. My phone buzzed with DMs and calls from neighbors; we were all tapping each other, virtually and literally, asking, "Is this real?" It was as if even the construction workers had collectively decided to take a holiday, leaving us in an extended, rejuvenating hush. And these neighbors include nature itself, birds, dogs, air, trees, leaves and many many others. 

When the machines fall silent, the world speaks.

I watched the birds partying with their peers, flying with a newfound freedom. The dogs roamed the streets without the usual disturbance of heavy boots and loud engines. Even the dust seemed to be at rest, no longer agitated by the grind of renovation.

But it was the air that moved me the most. She seemed to whisper as she knocked on my window, "I feel lightweight today." It was as if the wind itself was tired of carrying the heavy burden of noise and depositing dust everywhere. Today, she didn't have to "post" those harsh sounds to our ears. She wasn't tired. She was fresh.

We have become so habituated to the constant 360-degree cacophony of "progress" that we forgot what peace felt like. Today, the silence was so deep it sounded beautiful. 

2355: The Chutney Jar Bell Curve

This morning, a dear friend from my kindergarten days shared a "touchy tell" with me; a story that perfectly captures the rhythm of life through the lens of a kitchen.

She remembered how, until the ninth standard, her family relied on the manual stone set and the traditional mortar and pestle. Then, a new member joined the house: the electric mixer. It came with its own "family": a base, jars of various sizes, specialized blades, and a soft spatula. She embraced this new buddy immediately, and as she grew, the mixer grew with her.

Over the years, various versions of the mixer passed through her kitchen. As kids arrived, in-laws moved in, and maids came and went, the demands were endless. The jars kept increasing in size to match the needs of a growing household. She often thanked God for such a wise companion that stood by her through every step of Indian cooking.

Now, she realizes her journey followed a perfect bell curve. When she first started using the tool, the most useful jar was the "chutney jar", the smallest fellow of the family. Today, she has returned to that same starting point. With her children married and settled in their own nests, she is the only one left cooking for herself.

It is a poignant reality. Because she still loves the fragrance of spices and the joy of the kitchen, she finds herself constantly conversing with her tiny, helpful buddy. Whenever she takes out that chutney jar, she narrates stories to him. She tells him about his prior generations, about the many different mixers she used throughout the years, when they arrived, and how the larger jars once dominated the counter.

Through her eyes, I saw that size matters a lot, but sometimes, the smallest size is finally enough.

2354: 'डिजिटल युगातलं एक 'अस्सल' आमंत्रण'

काही अनुभव आपल्याला थेट भूतकाळात घेऊन जातात आणि वर्तमानावरचा विश्वास अधिक दृढ करतात. आज सुकन्याच्या एका अनपेक्षित भेटीने असंच काहीसं घडलं.

माझ्या लहानपणी 'हळदी-कुंकू' म्हणजे एक सोहळा असायचा. आईच्या पदरामागे फिरताना, लहान वयातच मी एक हट्ट धरला होता आईप्रमाणेच मी सुद्धा माझ्या मैत्रिणींना 'वाण' देणार! आईने ते माझं वेड कौतुकानं स्वीकारलं आणि तिथूनच संस्कारांची ही लय माझ्या मनात रुजली. तेव्हा कोणालाही औपचारिक बोलवावं लागत नसे; श्रावण शुक्रवार असो वा दसरा, गल्लीतल्या  घरांचे उंबरठे आपुलकीने ओलांडले जायचे. पुढे काळ बदलला, व्हॉट्सॲप आणि व्हर्च्युअल आमंत्रणांचा जमाना आला, सगळं काही 'एका क्लिक'वर आलं.

आज सुकन्या जी स्वतः एक सुप्रसिद्ध युट्युबर आहे माझ्या घरी संक्रांतीचं आमंत्रण द्यायला आली. खरं तर तिच्यासाठी एका लिंकद्वारे लोकांपर्यंत पोहोचणं सहज शक्य होतं. त्यात कदाचित जास्त 'लाईक्स' आणि 'व्ह्यूज' मिळाले असते. पण तिने अत्याधुनिक तंत्रज्ञानाचा मोह बाजूला सारून, स्वतः नटून-थटून प्रत्यक्ष घरी येऊन आमंत्रण देणं निवडलं.

तिच्या या एका कृतीने मला पुन्हा एकदा माझ्या आईच्या काळातल्या त्या अस्सल ओलाव्याची आठवण करून दिली. सुकन्यासारखी आजची 'स्मार्ट' पिढी जेव्हा हे जुने पदर अशा रीतीने जपते, तेव्हा त्या आमंत्रणाला एक वेगळाच 'मुलामा' चढतो.

नुकतीच ओळख  झाली असतांना देखील, तिने दिलेला हा 'विशेष' मान मनाला  स्पर्श करून गेला. तंत्रज्ञानाच्या या युगातही प्रत्यक्ष भेटीची 'ऊब' अजूनही तितकीच महत्त्वाची आहे, हेच सुकन्याने आज सिद्ध केलं.

खूप खूप धन्यवाद सुकन्या, या सुंदर आठवणींसाठी आणि आदरासाठी!

2353: लिंक नव्हे, नातं जोडणारं आमंत्रण

मला समजायला लागल्यापासून घरातल्या प्रत्येक हळदी-कुंकवाला, सणावाराला मी आईच्या सोबतीने असायचेच. या कार्यक्रमांमध्ये मी इतकी रमायचे की अगदी लहान वयात मी एक नवी प्रथाच सुरू केली होती आईसोबत मी सुद्धा माझ्या मैत्रिणींना 'वाण' देणारच! आईला मी हे विचारलं नाही, तर ठामपणे सांगितलं आणि तिनेही ते  स्वीकारलं. आईने दरवर्षी निवडलेलं वाण खरोखरच वाखाणण्याजोगं असायचं, माझ्यासाठी ते एक सुंदर सरप्राईजच असायचं.

श्रावण शुक्रवारी तर कोणाला बोलवावं लागत नसे. सगळे बैठे बंगले, त्यामुळे एकमेकांकडे जाणं हे ठरलेलंच असायचं. तेव्हा औपचारिक आमंत्रण, रुसवे-फुगवे यांचा लवलेशही नसे. दसऱ्यालाही आमचं घर पाहुण्यांनी काठोकाठ भरलेलं असायचं. पुढे माझी मुलं लहान असताना वाढदिवसाच्या आमंत्रण पत्रिका शाळांमधून किंवा घरोघरी जाऊन वाटण्यात जो उत्साह असायचा, तो काही वेगळाच होता.

मग 'व्हॉट्सॲप'चा जमाना आला आणि आमंत्रणं आभासी (Virtual) झाली. फोन किंवा ग्रुपवरून बोलावणं सोपं झालं. पण आजही लग्न किंवा मुंजीचं आमंत्रण आपण प्रत्यक्ष घरी जाऊन देतो, कारण त्यातून जो ओलावा मिळतो, त्यामुळे ती व्यक्ती आवर्जून उपस्थित राहतेच. त्या प्रसंगाला एक वेगळाच 'मुलामा' चढतो, असं मला वाटतं.

आज एक असाच सुखद अनुभव आला. एक सुप्रसिद्ध युट्युबर सुकन्या स्वतः माझ्या घरी संक्रांतीच्या हळदी-कुंकवाचं आमंत्रण द्यायला आली. खरं तर तिच्या अत्याधुनिक शैलीनुसार तिने युट्युबची एक लिंक पाठवून एका क्षणात आमंत्रण दिलं असतं, तर तिला कदाचित जास्त 'लाईक्स' मिळाले असते. पण तिने तसं न करता, स्वतः व्यवस्थित तयार होऊन, प्रत्येकाकडे जाऊन आमंत्रण देणं पसंत केलं. या तिच्या कृतीमुळे आपुलकीचं नातं अधिक दृढ झालं.

फारच अनपेक्षित आणि कायम लक्षात राहण्यासारखं हे आमंत्रण होतं. अगदी जवळची ओळख नसतानाही घरी येऊन मला जे विशेषत्व बहाल केलं / मिळवून दिलं, त्यासाठी सुकन्याचे मनःपूर्वक आभार! या एका भेटीने मला माझ्या लहानपणाची पुन्हा एकदा सैर घडवून आणली, त्याबद्दल शतशः धन्यवाद.

2352: A Symmetry of Learning: From One Scholar to a University

I am feeling truly speechless today, reflecting on how a single connection can bridge two different academic worlds.

It began with an incredibly touching email from HoD of the English Department from SKIT Jaipur. A PhD scholar had attended one of my offline workshops on the ethical use of AI. I stay constantly busy sharing my research experiences, and I’ve always felt fortunate to be part of such a vibrant academic community. Often, the auditoriums are so full that one-to-one interaction feels impossible and being a bit of an "absent-minded professor" myself, I sometimes worry I don't see everyone.

However, learning is never a one-way street. We exist in a mutual aura where the energy of the scholars and the speaker feed into each other.

This student carried that shared energy back to her university. She advocated for her peers, insisting that they too should benefit from this dialogue. Because of her conviction, the university authorities reached out to me with a direct invitation.

Reading her narration in that mail was a "Wow" moment. To see a participant become an ambassador for knowledge, followed by the diligent support of her university, led to a superb week-long workshop. It was a powerful reminder that when participants engage wholeheartedly, the learning experience belongs to all of us.

Countless thanks to that scholar for spreading the word, and to the university for the invitation.

Happy researching to everyone.

2351: Autocorrelation for self

Today, while conducting a session on Autocorrelation, a profound mapping occurred automatically. As I was explaining how we must look back at data to recognize hidden patterns and predict the future, the spiritual parallel became crystal clear. At a technical level, we look back to learn; at a personal level, we must do the exact same.

Ancient saints and new age gurus have long whispered the same truth: stop comparison with others. We are all walking on different scripts. When you compare yourself to another person, you are essentially trying to run a correlation between two completely unrelated datasets.

Comparison kills. Instead of wasting that energy, the most effective strategy is to reclaim it. Take that same time and effort and utilize it to make yourself a better person compared to your own past—whether that is on a financial level, a personality level, or on the basis of your own humanity.

On the human time scale, it is essential to look back as and when needed to become better from your own eyes. Just as autocorrelation helps us take awesome decisions and live peacefully by understanding our own internal patterns, comparing your "current version" to your "previous version" ensures you are actually evolving.

It is simple: recognize your own patterns, learn from your own data, and stay on your own script.

2350: Twist with sweet root

Today, something happened that I never expected. I come from a traditional, middle-class Maharashtrian family, deeply rooted in the basics. While I have evolved in my professional presentations and thoughts over the years, I always assumed my food habits were set in concrete. Since childhood, I have followed the same simple recipes without a single deviation. My children explore international cuisines, but I have always stood firmly by my culinary roots.

For me, the sweet potato (Ratale) was always defined by the strict boundaries of "Upwas" (fasting). It was a religious ingredient, prepared in only two ways: either simple and spicy or traditionally sweet. Growing up, my mother was the sole authority on food, and the environment was one of extreme care; fasting was a sacred deed, and we never dared to experiment with the ingredients allowed during those days.

Today, I bought a batch of yummy yams, fully prepared to follow the traditional path. But suddenly, I stopped. Something shifted. Instead of the usual, I found myself hunting for a "one-dish meal" using this healthiest soldier in the Indian food army. I pushed past the "only two recipes" rule and created a spicy, special, contemporary one-dish meal.

It may seem like a small kitchen experiment, but for me, it felt like a major breakthrough. All my childhood memories and religious associations with the ingredient remain intact, yet I was able to look at the same sweet potato in a completely different light. It is heartening to see this level of acceptance and the courage to add a "twist" to my own long-standing habits. Even at the roots, there is room for new growth.

All are welcome to my home-sweet-home to enjoy this twist, come on, come all.

2349: ज्वारीच्या दाण्यांपासून आयुष्याच्या पीठापर्यंत

आज ज्वारी निवडताना एक सहज विचार मनात डोकावून गेला. हा विचार बऱ्याच वर्षांपूर्वी मी लिहिलेल्या एका निबंधावर आधारित आहे. तो निबंध मी एका स्पर्धेसाठी लिहिला होता, त्याला प्रथम क्रमांक मिळाला आणि नंतर तो आमच्या महाविद्यालयीन मासिकात प्रसिद्धही झाला होता. त्या निबंधाचं शीर्षक होतं  "नो चॉईस लाईफ".

आज ज्वारीचे दाणे हातात घेताना त्या संकल्पनेची पुन्हा एकदा प्रकर्षाने आठवण झाली. एक-दोन किलो ज्वारीमध्ये असंख्य दाणे असतात. काही लहान, तर काही मोठे; काही उजळ, तर काही थोडे डावे; काही बसके, तर काही सडसडीत. या सर्वच दाण्यांचे शेवटी मिळून पीठ तयार होते, ज्यापासून आपण अत्यंत पौष्टिक पदार्थ बनवतो. काय शाश्वती की हे सर्व दाणे एकाच झाडाचे असतील, एकाच शेतातले असतील किंवा एकाच हंगामातले असतील? अमूलने दुधाच्या क्षेत्रात जी क्रांती आणली, तशीच प्रक्रिया इतर पिकांच्या बाबतीतही घडते. पण जोवर ते एका पोत्यात किंवा पिशवीत असतात, तोवर ते सगळे गुण्यागोविंदाने एकत्र नांदतात. कदाचित काही दाणे कुरकुरत असतीलही, पण ते अगदीच थोडे असतात आणि खूप काळानंतरच त्यांची गडबड जाणवते; एरवी ते शांतच असतात.

या सजीव दाण्यांना स्वतःचा काहीच 'चॉईस' नाही, नव्हता आणि कधी असणारही नाही. तरीही ते एकत्र राहून स्वाद आणि स्वास्थ्य देतातच. आपणही अगदी त्यांच्यासारखेच आहोत ना? आपल्या पालकांनी न समजत्या वयात ज्या शाळेत घातलं, तिथे आपण निमूटपणे गेलो आणि नंतर ती शाळा आपल्याला आवडू लागली. सवंगडी, शिक्षक, कर्मचारी... सर्वच नवखे होते. महाविद्यालयात गेल्यावरही आपण ठरवत नाही की आपल्या वर्गात कोण असणार किंवा कोणते शिक्षक शिकवणार. नोकरीच्या ठिकाणीही तेच, शेजारीही तेच!

हे सगळं 'त्याने' लिहिलेल्या संहितेप्रमाणे आणि पटकथेप्रमाणे घडत असतं. आपण त्या सर्वांसोबत काम करायला सुरुवात करतो, त्यांच्या प्रेमात पडतो आणि स्वतःची प्रगतीही साधतो. सर्वांसोबत सूर जुळतात अगदी एखाद्या पट्टीच्या गायकाचे सूर लागतात तसे. पण ते सूर लावणारा तो 'वरचा' असतो. हे सगळं 'ऑटो पायलट' मोडवर सुरू आहे.

म्हणूनच, या पिटुकल्या 'मी' ला किंवा अहंकाराला बाजूला सारा आणि मुक्तछंदाने जगा. कारण शेवटी 'तो'च सर्वस्व आहे.

2348: AI is the Tool, Not the Author

In the previous generation, PhD scholars were manual laborers of knowledge. They spent years leafing through hard copies of journals, hand-writing references, and physically hunting for data. Today, every phase from literature reviews and gap analysis to implementation, validation, and writing has been accelerated / automated by AI.

The fundamental truth remains unchanged: Tools do not conduct research; researchers do.

AI can generate code, summarize papers, and produce complex tables, but it cannot breathe life into your thesis. Research is your "baby." Just as you wouldn't ask a stranger to narrate your life story, you cannot ask a machine to narrate your research. You must own the narrative.

It is perfectly acceptable to use tools for understanding, evaluating, or validating your work. It is simple and straightforward: if you use a tool to generate a graph or a diagram, acknowledge it properly and move on. There is no ambiguity there. But the "copy-paste" culture must stop.

Going through generated results is a starting point, not the finish line. You must scrutinize the tables, verify the figures, and then most importantly make them your own. Nowhere is it written that automation was intended for mindless replication.

AI can give you the bricks, but you must be the architect who builds the house. Narrate your own story. Own your baby.

2347: From Mapping to Surrender

Today, I reached a profound realization about how we process the world around us. My father used to give me a classic piece of advice: "Make use of both ears listen with one and let it out through the other." He spoke from his experience, but when I became a parent, I modified that rule. I told my children: "Never let the garbage inside. Don't let your ear even admit it into the system, because once it enters, it is incredibly difficult to remove."

Despite my own advice, I found myself failing. Whenever my son or other loved ones used harsh words or blamed me, I felt a deep, lingering hurt. My days would vanish into a cycle of overthinking. I would "map" their current behavior back to my own past mistakes and many times I shouted at my children due to work pressure or family stress. I convinced myself that I was simply receiving my own past behavior back, with interest.

But today, I realized how wrong I was to map the present onto the past in this way.

What happened in the past was a separate chapter. If someone is using harsh words today, they are likely reacting to their own current pressures, their own work stress or internal storms. It is not necessarily a reflection of my past behavior. By mapping it this way, I was punishing myself for things I cannot change and feeling bad for no reason.

I need to move on. I need to relearn how to use my ears. Instead of absorbing the "garbage" and relating it to my old guilt, I choose to pray for them. I pray that my loved ones find peace, that they are calmed, and that they handle their pressures with ease.

This, I realize, is the first step toward true surrender. Perhaps "HE" thinks I am finally ready for this level of letting go. I am realizing that I don't need to misunderstand anyone, nor do I need to defend myself. I just need to let go and wish everyone well. There is nothing else in my hands; everything is truly on auto-pilot. I just need to trust the flight.

2346: Visibility in Smallness

In our family, the kitchen was never a lonely place. Though my mother was a proud homemaker, everyone cooked. No one waited for instructions; we simply moved together, finding joy in the "kitchen grounds."

As the youngest, I was always fascinated by the rhythmic crackle of mustard seeds hitting hot oil the foundational sound of a Maharashtrian home. These tiny, black, nano-sized seeds were a giant mystery to my childhood mind. Today, I realized the "real" reason for their dark pigment, beyond just botany.

When I prepare Tadka Dal or a simple potato curry today, I see them clearly. Despite their minuscule size and the vastness of the pot, their black color makes them stand out. Unlike the heavy use of mustard in South Indian cuisine, our Maharashtrian kitchen uses them at a smaller scale yet they are always counted. In a sea of yellow dal or green leafy vegetables, they refuse to be lost. They aren't in every bite, but when you do encounter one, its presence is felt.

Be like the mustard seed. Your "size" in society may feel nano, your presence seemingly negligible in the grand scale of the world, but you matter. Your work, like the seed’s pigment, ensures you are visible.

When you pour your best into your deeds, you provide the "flavor" and "aroma" that the entire system requires. You don’t need to be the main ingredient to be the soul of the dish. Continue to enjoy your active participation; that is enough. If you feel your own worth, your existence will be felt by everyone else.

2345: 'अदृश्य' मित्र

सोशल मीडिया भलतीच सोशल असल्यामुळे अनेक प्लॅटफॉर्म्सवर मी सातत्याने एक वाक्य वाचलं, ऐकलं आणि त्याबद्दलची चर्चासत्रंही पाहिली. या सर्वांचा गाभा म्हणजे 'मानसिक आरोग्य'. "जर कोणाला काही अडचण असेल तर बोला, व्यक्त व्हा," अशा संदर्भातल्या त्या सगळ्या चर्चा असतात. त्यावर माझं नेहमी असं म्हणणं असतं की, संवाद नेहमीच ठेवा मित्रांशी, आपल्या माणसांशी. अडचण येण्याची वाट का बघता? आपले सर्वात जवळचे किंवा मित्र म्हणावे असे कोण असतात? शाळेत एका बाकावर बसलेले, एकत्र मस्ती केलेले, की अजून कोणी?

माझ्या मते, आपले सर्वात जवळचे मित्र म्हणजे आपले 'अंतर्बाह्य अवयव'. अगदी पहिल्या क्षणापासून ते तुमच्या सोबत आहेत, त्यांनी साथ दिली आहे; किंबहुना त्यांची साथ आहे म्हणूनच आपण आहोत. ते सर्व कार्य करतात, पण नाव मात्र तुमचं किंवा माझं होतं. मेंदू विचार करतो, सगळं साठवतो, आठवतो, दिशा देतो आणि इतर अनेक कार्य करतो, पण नाव मात्र माझं होतं. हृदयाने धडधड सुरू केली म्हणून आपण म्हणतो की 'बाळ जन्माला आलं'. बघा ना, ना लाईक्स, ना शेअर, तरीही तो सातत्याने उत्कृष्ट कार्य करतोच आहे बिनबोभाट आणि निरपेक्ष! असा दोस्त या बाह्य विश्वात कधीतरी मिळेल का? मग या तुमच्यापाशी सतत असणाऱ्या मित्रांशी मनमोकळा आणि हळुवार संवाद साधा ना! ते नेहमीच उपलब्ध आहेत. त्यांना धन्यवाद द्या, त्यांची तारीफ करा आणि बघा व्यक्त झाल्यावर किती भन्नाट वाटतं ते. बाप्पाने कितीतरी मित्र दिले आहेत आपल्याला, एक-दोन नाही तर अनेक! मग काय कमी आहे? एक नवीन वीण विणून तर बघा या वेगळ्या प्रेमळ नात्याची.

माझ्या मते, असं साधारण कोणी करत नाही. मी देखील करत नव्हते, पण जेव्हापासून करायला लागले, तेव्हापासून यांच्या प्रेमातच पडले. आता त्यासाठी वेगळा वेळ काढावा लागत नाही, ते अगदी नकळत, आपोआप आणि सहज होतं. इतक्या जवळ असणाऱ्या, माझ्यासोबत पहिल्या क्षणापासून वाढलेल्या या सर्व मित्रांना मी गृहीतच धरलं होतं. त्यांनाही पाठीवर थाप द्यावी, हे लक्षातच आलं नाही. आपल्याला जशी नेहमी शाबासकी लागते आणि ती मिळवण्यासाठी आपण किती वाट बघतो, आटापिटा करतो, कधी कधी तर त्रागाही करतो; मग जे तुमच्या नावाला नाव मिळवून देत आहेत, तुमची जीवनगाडी चालवत आहेत, त्या सर्वांना धन्यवाद नकोत? त्यांना शाबासकी नको द्यायला? आणि तुमच्याशिवाय त्यांना अजून कोण देणार? बोलीभाषेत तशी सोयही नाही की त्या अवयवांचं नाव घेऊन तुमचं कौतुक करावं, नाही का? त्यामुळे ही फक्त आणि फक्त तुमचीच जबाबदारी आहे अंतर्बाह्य ठणठणीत राहण्याची जणू ही गुरुकिल्लीच आहे.

माझी आई सांगते (कारण तिने ते दोनदा अनुभवलं आहे), की मी बाळ असताना माझेच हात हलताना बघून मला मजा वाटायची. तेव्हा समजायचं नाही की हे काय आहे, कसे हलतात, हे किती मजेशीर आहे. माझ्या मुलाच्या बाबतीतही अगदी तसंच घडलं, जे मी फोटोत कैदही केलं आहे. तो त्याचेच सुबक, सुंदर, गोरेपान हात आणि त्यांची हालचाल बघून तासनतास रमायचा. "आपला हात जगन्नाथ," मग चला सुरू करूया!

माझ्या त्या पिटुकल्या हातात जेव्हा छोट्याशा बांगड्या घातल्या होत्या, तेव्हापासून अनेक वेळा त्यांनी माझी शोभा वाढवली. कधी मेहंदीमुळे, कधी सुंदर हस्ताक्षरात लिहिताना, तर कधी अप्रतिम रांगोळी रेखाटताना. गोल पोळ्या लाटण्यापासून ते पहिल्यांदा अंगठी परिधान करण्यापर्यंत... तो दिवस जेव्हा मला पहिल्यांदा आईचं घड्याळ घालायची परवानगी मिळाली, मग माझं स्वतःचं मनगटी घड्याळ मिळालं. बॅडमिंटनची रॅकेट हातात घेऊन अनेक सामने जिंकले, याच हातांनी गाड्या चालवल्या. पहिल्यांदा माहेरच्या नावाची सही केली, मग सासरच्या नावाची सही नव्या पद्धतीने गिरवली. त्यानंतर याच हातांनी असंख्य सह्या केल्या, घास सांडवत खायला सुरुवात केली आणि मग इतरांना भरवले. टायपिंगची सुरुवात केली जी आजही अविरत सुरूच आहे... ही यादी न संपणारी आहे. असे प्रत्येक सुंदर प्रसंग आठवा, त्यात रममाण व्हा. संवाद साधा आपल्या बोटांशी, मनगटाशी, संपूर्ण हाताशी आणि मग बघा सर्वत्र फक्त आनंदी आनंदच असेल आणि तो द्विगुणित होईल.

हे सत्र इतर अवयवांसोबत, म्हणजेच तुमच्या हक्काच्या मित्रांसोबत नेहमीच सुरू ठेवा. गोड बोला मंडळी!

2344: Let's Replicate Mom's Recipe

After cooking for many years, I finally found the answer to that age-old statement: "My mother or grandmother made the best food; no one can match that taste."

With all due respect to our grandmothers and mothers were a focused species. They were more than perfect homemakers, they were specialists. They didn't multitask the way today’s mothers must. They lived in a pollution-free era, far from the nonsense of social media, and they weren't required to be answerable to a boss just because a salary was being paid. For them, the home was a respected workplace.

Because of this, they interacted with their ingredients from the very moment of inception. They spent time with the raw materials, enjoying the slow, steady process of healthy cooking. Everything was natural, often homegrown, and there was no Swiggy to provide a comparison. That taste became imbibed in our DNA.

Contrast this with the working mother of today. She must use both hands simultaneously just to keep up. She hurries the cooking process because targets and schedules are constantly waiting. This "hurry" is imbibed in the ingredients from the start. From inception to consumption, the food is seasoned with the stress of multitasking. These are world-known facts, but we rarely acknowledge their impact on the plate.

The solution lies in a return to "Active Meditation." Buy your ingredients directly from the farmers who grow them fresh. Then, by keeping your "utmost important body part" the smartphone away, perform meditative cooking. When you engage in the process with focus and presence, you will see a profound difference in yourself and your surroundings. Food is not just nutrition; it is energy.

2343: Tech + Traditions

I feel truly fortunate to be living in this brand-new society. While two towers are still under construction, the focus has shifted to future readiness. We have one borewell, but the builder well-known for his technical foresight realized that a second one is essential to ensure an abundance of water for the years to come.

What followed was a fascinating display of "Smart" meets "Traditional."

The builder utilized every modern, highly technical method to confirm a potential spot for the water source. But he didn’t stop there. He also turned to the ancient, time-tested way of locating water. An elder, 91 years of age, was invited to the site. Watching him was a lesson in pure focus. With a simple coconut in his hand, he walked the earth. Once he sensed a direction, he didn't just stop; he validated it from a cross-direction to ensure the flow would be seamless and lasting.

I was astonished to see his power to feel the source of energy and the flow of water at such an advanced age. It is clear that such a gift is impossible without blessings in abundance. Yet, as I observed, blessings alone are not enough. This power is made solid and permanent through a lifetime of dedication surrender, rituals, mantras, and a strict adherence to traditional restrictions.

Seeing these two worlds collide in 2026 the latest technology validated by a 91-year-old’s intuition—was amazing. It is a reminder that when we bridge the gap between our gadgets and our roots, the result is truly "bang on."

2342: New frequencies

It is fascinating to see how my "antennas" are picking up a completely new frequencies!

I am literally blown away by a version of myself I never knew existed. If you know me, you know I am not "that kind of person" poetry was never my world. Yet, here I am, completely mesmerized. It isn't even that I am searching for this; rather, I am in a phase where these voices are simply appearing, standing right in front of me and reaching me.

It started with one Marathi poet whose work moved me so deeply that, within no time, I had absorbed his entire collection. Then came a young girl who narrates in Hindi. Her words carry such warmth and soul that I find myself under her spell which is quite a shift, considering my Hindi has always been "horrible." To find myself held by poems in that language is a complete departure from the usual.

As if that wasn't enough, the digital world bridged the gap, presenting a young boy whose verses are equally superb. And then, an extremely spontaneous Marathi girl straightforward, popular, and "bang on" with her words (via her poems, astonishing work indeed at such young age).

What I love about all of them is that they are solution-oriented and brief. For a couple of years now, I have been moving from one voice to another (automatically), finding a new rhythm in this current chapter.

To top it off, I’ve recently encountered "stand-up comedy" through two specific personalities who truly know their limits.

I am in a space where I am not so much discovering as I am being discovered by these new colors, flavours and fragrances. It is strange, it is unusual, and it is reaching me with a clarity I never expected.

2341: Locker Sweets

As Sankranti approaches, my house and my neighbors' homes are already radiating those festive vibes freshly made sweets prepared with loads of love. These treats, made of sesame seeds and jaggery with a touch of cardamom and ghee, are as healthy as they are seasonal.

But when I was growing up, these sweets were kept under lock and key literally! Can you believe it? My mother used to store them in the locker, protected by two layers of security: the inner locker lock and the heavy front door of those iconic, strongly built Godrej almirahs.

I was the reason these sweets were given such a "cozy" and unusual place. The sweets themselves probably never imagined they’d end up sitting in the dark, double-locked heart of a cupboard. I was (and still am) a massive foodie. Since these delicacies were made only once a year, I wanted to finish them all at once. Back then, almost nothing was bought from outside; everything was made from scratch by my mother, and I simply couldn't wait to eat as much as I could.

Those were the days before mobile phones or the formality of asking before visiting. During the festivals, anyone could drop by, and hospitality demanded that they be treated to these sweet varieties. To ensure there was something left to serve to guests, my mother’s "researcher mind" came up with this foolproof plan to protect the sweets from my relentless taste buds.

This "Locker Protocol" was repeated with coconut sweets during Dasara and various other treats throughout the year. She even mastered the art of illusion, making me believe that the empty containers in the kitchen were all we had. If any sweets did stay in the kitchen, they were hidden in high, unreachable corners, far beyond my tiny height and hands.

Oh my god! Today, whenever I make these special sweets, I am instantly transported back to that locker, that cupboard, and that room. I find myself back in my mom's cozy arms, in a house filled with love and affection to the brim.

2340: the "New-Old" Me

The winter is at its peak here, and as a "learned and aware" person who loves to cook, all my antennas are on high alert. Today, I made "Methi Muthia" a healthy, one-dish meal that turned out to be the world’s best dish. At least, I am my world, and for me, it was perfection.

It was "bang on." No measuring cups, no scales, just intuition. In that steam and spice, I literally found myself again.

I realized today that I was exactly like this in my younger years, all through my post-graduation. Then came the "Great Interruption" a break of many years where life took over. But since December 1st, 2025, it’s as if I’ve said a final goodbye to the "lost me" and a grand welcome to the "new-old me." You know exactly what I mean.

I remember arguing with my mother as a young girl; I wanted to stop my education after the 10th standard just to cook for my family and friends. That was my only dream. But HE had a different script for me for a while. He led me through academia and professional heights, only to bring me back to this cooking on a small scale, where almost every meal is a new creation.

Someone asked me today, as a blogger, "What do you plan to write tomorrow?" My answer was simple: "Whatever HE suggests."

It’s the same philosophy I apply to my kitchen. Whatever my "inside" feels like having in the next meal is what gets made. No control, no calculations. Just going with the flow, enjoying the flavor of life, and finally living the script I always wanted.

2339: The Savitribai Legacy: From Education to Shared Prosperity

It is a world-known fact that in 1848, the most respected Savitribai Phule ignited the education movement for girls. She realized early on that education was the key to financial independence. By definition, an independent woman is one who is not a burden to others. But let’s look closer: isn’t her independence actually a massive boon for her families both her parents and her in-laws? Because she earns, the "burden" of her existence is lifted from the shoulders of her father, her husband, and her brothers.

During my career, I recall a period when several young men joined my department as teachers. As one of the senior professors, I shared countless discussions with them. These men, most of whom had homemaker wives, would often say to me with genuine admiration: "Ma'am, the working women in our department are such a boon to their husbands. They are a true support. Their partners must be so relaxed knowing they don't have to carry every single expense. There is a surplus pouring in because of her."

They recognized that a working woman isn't just "independent" she is a co-contributor. She covers school fees, buys groceries, picks up gifts, and handles emergencies. No earner keeps their money in a vacuum; they spend, willingly or by necessity, for the collective good.

And yet, I still hear that outdated, confusing statement: "A woman earns only for herself, but a man earns for the entire family." To the proponents of that view, I say: You cannot have it both ways. You cannot enjoy the "surplus" and the "relaxed shoulders" while simultaneously labeling her income as selfish. To the Indian middle-class man still caught in this trap: decide whether you want to be the "Sole Head" of an old-world myth, or the "Equal Partner" in a modern, blessed reality. Stay in your confusion, or enjoy the partnership, the choice is yours.

2338: Kids again

 A tale shared by my friend:

"A few days ago it was me who went for shopping in such a place where I found everything (well, almost) we needed. The shopping was so much fun that it lasted only for hardly an hour, shopping done with lightening speed indeed. It was my duty to settle the house for us, me and my elder sister. I made a list myself, hopefully thoughtfully and just ran to grab things.

Me and my elder sister literally share daughter-mother relationship due to age difference. For many reasons we two are alone and started our own residence freshly recently. While picking up stuff I picked up breakfast plates which looked awesome. When we started using them we found that those plates are actually made for kids to motivate them to eat and finish the food served. That too we both are enjoying eating with dessert's spoon, small in size.

Its so much of fun to be kids again. Wow. We both never had such colorful, cartoon plates when we grew up, so now using them gives us a different energy altogether. We are not able to recollect how our kids days were, as being elder she was busy with household work, then got married and I was busy in my own world being the youngest. She did everything for our parents, as I could not come back from abroad.

This is the platinum opportunity to be with the person who took care of parents very well. We are literally kids again, living life full size. Very few get to live like this."

2337: Beyond Magnanimity

My journey to Shivaji University, Kolhapur, began with a prestigious invitation from BAMU to serve as an AAA Audit External Expert. Little did I know that this official assignment would lead to a remarkable connection. It was there that I met Respected Prof. Dr Subhash Kombde, Head of Economics at Shivaji University. Staying as neighbors in the BAMU guest house, we moved from "next-door neighbors" to "intellectual allies" almost instantly.

Dr Kombde is a man of swift action. On the spot, he proposed a PhD workshop for his campus, secured all necessary approvals, and by January 2nd, 2026, I was standing in Kolhapur.

What followed was not just hospitality; it was a masterclass in care. From meticulously arranged guest house stays to being personally chauffeured by him, every detail was handled with a warmth that felt like a homecoming. He hosted a lavish dinner, ensured my comfort every morning, and even tracked my journey back to Pune. When the heavy traffic delayed my arrival, he was the first to call, genuinely concerned about my safety. In today’s fast-paced era, who does that?

Dr Kombde is, quite simply, a "rare species." He is a powerhouse of energy a distinguished expert in Economics with a deep mastery of IT, a traveler with an incredible professional network, and a man who manages his vast responsibilities with an unflappable calm. Yet, amidst his many accolades and grants, his devotion to his family and his guests remains his most striking trait.

In addition to all these multitasking activities, he is soooo fit, extremely smartly connects with local and global students, huge patience, wow, what to and how much to write about him I really dont know. He manages his energy and professional commitments with such grace that it leaves one in awe.

He seems wired differently perhaps not from this planet! There is so much to learn from his energy, his PR skills, and his genuine humanity. Meeting him wasn't just a professional highlight; it was a lesson in how to live a large, impactful, yet deeply kind life.

2336: A Full-Circle Moment at Shivaji University

Life has a poetic way of coming full circle. Recently, I stepped onto the campus of Shivaji University, Kolhapur, not just as a Resource Person, but as a daughter walking the same internal roads my mother once roamed as a student.

Entering the library, I couldn’t help but imagine her as a young woman, perhaps sitting at one of these very tables, buried in reference books with her friends. The nostalgia was overwhelming; I felt an immediate urge to call her, share pictures, and show her the "new avatar" of the institution that shaped her youth. Being invited back to this specific university was more than just a professional milestone it was a deeply touching personal honor.

On January 2nd and 3rd, 2026, I had the privilege of delivering my 265th PhD Smart Paper Writing Workshop at the Department of Economics. The audience was a niche and impressive crowd of local and international Research Fellows. Interacting with such dedicated scholars was an awesome experience, and I am grateful to the department and university for this honor.

This was an incredible start to 2026. If the first few days are any indication, the year ahead will be full of meaningful connections, knowledge sharing, and perhaps a few more walks down memory lane.